CONTACT DERMATITIS
COMMON SYMPTOMS Symptoms of Contact Dermatitis can obviously vary from person to person, however, in just about all cases an itchy, red rash will develop. If caused by an irritant, the rash will usually develop sooner rather than later as compared to an allergen specific response. In all cases, the rash is localized to only those areas touched or contacted by the irritant or allergen. In some cases, small to rather large sized blisters, welts or hives (urticaria) can develop. Irritant related reactions are generally more painful (burning) than itchy, and often develop on the hands where contact with an irritant first occurs. TYPES AND CAUSES We’ve probably all experienced at least one episode of a skin reaction in our lives. Remember that unpleasant skin reaction you received after coming in contact with poison ivy, poison oak or poison sumac? This is one example of Contact Dermatitis caused by an external allergen. Sometimes, these types of rashes are referred to as Allergic Dermatitis. Others of us may be sensitive to harsh detergents and other types of cleaning agents. I had to quit one of my very first jobs as a teen bus-boy because the commercial grade dishwashing detergent used in the restaurant was causing a rash on both forearms. Itching or burning rashes caused from contact with an irritant can take several days to several weeks to heal. In some cases, prolonged exposure to some types of skin irritants can lead to Chronic Contact Dermatitis . . . meaning that even after removal of the offending chemical agent, a rash in some form may persist.
Another reason a person may develop Contact Dermatitis is due to an allergic reaction, or immune system response that manifests itself in the form of a skin rash after contact with a specific substance. Some common allergens include nickel, gold, balsam of peru, formaldehyde, bacitracin, neomycin and some fragrances. Reactions in these cases are “site specific” and differ from other types of allergic reactions by the fact that the allergen is “external” rather than internal (i.e. ingested or in the blood stream). Normally, the first contact with an allergen will not elicit a skin reaction. However, the skin becomes sensitized, either with the first contact, or repeated contact with the allergen. Eventually, a skin rash may develop, usually within 6 to 72 hours after contact with the allergen. A third reason is the combination of a photosensitizer (i.e. some skin lotions and topical medications) and direct exposure to sunlight (ultraviolet). TREATMENT OPTIONS If you believe you have made contact with a possible skin irritant or allergen, immediately wash the exposed area with soap and water. This will remove and/or inactivate most of the reactive substance. If irritant related, sometimes a weak acidic solution (lemon juice or vinegar) will help to counteract the effects of an alkaline agent. Depending upon your symptoms, follow-up with one or more of the following:
In all cases, if the rash does not improve or continues to spread after several days of self-treatment, see your doctor. PREVENTION The easiest way to avoid skin problems associated with Contact Dermatitis is to avoid contact with the irritant or allergen. Sounds easy enough, but sometimes not so easy to accomplish. When in contact with known irritants, it’s helpful to wear gloves and use barrier creams. If you think you’re dealing with some sort of allergy reaction, you should see a dermatologist and request a “patch” test. This test will help to identify the offending substance. Return from Contact Dermatitis to Skin Rash Page
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There are really three different reasons why some of us develop Contact Dermatitis. The first reason, as described in the first example above results from contact with an irritant. These types of rashes account for over 80% of all cases of Contact Dermatitis. Common chemical irritants include solvents, metal working fluids, latex, kerosene, surfactants and alkalies. In these cases, a rash usually develops due to direct damage to the affected skin. And, the longer the offending material is allowed to remain on the skin, the greater the damage and associated rash.
